The Elements of Moral Science, by Noah Porter, Sampson Low, 1885 Edinburgh University prize-binding
A notable work of nineteenth-century moral philosophy by the American educator, theologian, and President of Yale College, Noah Porter, The Elements of Moral Science was written as an accessible introduction to ethics, duty, conscience, and human responsibility. Drawing upon both philosophical reasoning and Christian thought, Porter examines the foundations of moral behaviour, virtue, and the relationship between the individual and society. Widely used in universities and theological colleges during the late nineteenth century, the work provides a valuable insight into the teaching of ethics at a time when moral philosophy occupied a central place in higher education. This copy is especially appealing as a contemporary University of Edinburgh prize volume, bearing the gilt university armorial roundel to the upper cover.
The Elements of Moral Science, by Noah Porter.
Published by Sampson Low, Marston, Searle & Rivington, London. 1885. First UK edition (published the same year as the American first edition).
A good full polished calf leather hardback with gilt Edinburgh University roundel to front with gilt decorated border. The spine has raised bands and full gilt tooling, with a burgundy morocco title label. Covers and spine with some wear and rubbing, and headcap absent. Joints rubbed and some small leather losses to one raised band and at rear joint near the head of spine.
An attractive book, but let down by the front cover which is only loosely attached by the cords along the front hinge. Gilt decoration to board edges. With marbled endpapers and first pastedown carries the remains of a prize presentation label being removed.
The text block itself is lovely and clean and presents very well. Full marbled edges to text block.
Text in English.
xxv + 574pp.
Dimensions: approximately 209mm high x 140mm wide x 38mm deep.
Weight: approximately 816g (unpacked).